礼
rei
rei is the Japanese word for a formal bow used to show respect or gratitude.
The term is used to refer to the physical act of bowing, which is a fundamental part of social etiquette and ritual in Japanese culture.
What does it mean word for word?
The character 礼 literally means courtesy, etiquette or a bow.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the action of bowing, use the phrase 礼をする.
How do you pronounce it?
rei
When do people say it?
In Japanese culture, rei refers to the physical act of bowing as a fundamental part of social etiquette and ritual.
Did you know?
- The degree of the rei indicates the level of respect, with a 15-degree bow for casual greetings, 30 degrees for respect, and 45 degrees for deep apologies or high-ranking officials.
- In martial arts, a rei is not just a greeting but a requirement to enter and leave the training area, known as the dojo. Failing to perform this bow is considered a serious breach of discipline.
- While rei is a physical bow, it is also the root of the word for 'gift' or 'token of appreciation' in many social contexts.
Examples in context
- 文学（ぶんがく）は人間の心（こころ）を表現（ひょうげん）する。Literature expresses the human spirit.
- 彼（かれ）は私（わたし）に冷たく（つめたく）無反応（むはんのう）だった。He was cold and unresponsive to me.
- まずは礼をしましょう。Mazu wa rei o shimashō.Let's bow first.
- 丁寧な礼をしました。Teineina rei o shimashita.He/She gave a polite bow.
Example conversation
Youta and Himari are practicing for a traditional ceremony.
- 陽太 Yotaここでの礼は、もっとゆっくりして。Koko de no rei wa, motto yukkuri shite.The bow here should be slower.
- 陽葵 Himari分かった。もう一度やってみるね。Wakatta. Mou ichido yatte miru ne.I understand. I'll try it one more time.
- 陽太 Yotaうん、今の礼はとても丁寧だったよ。Un, ima no rei wa totemo teinei datta yo.Yes, that bow was very polite.
- 陽葵 Himariありがとう、陽太。Arigatou, Youta.Thank you, Youta.
